Comerford — 168 MW Hydroelectric

Ranked as the 1564th largest power generation facility in the United States, the Comerford hydroelectric plant represents a valuable asset in the northeastern energy landscape. With a capacity of 167.8 MW, it stands as the 124th largest hydro facility in the country, contributing a small yet significant portion to the national grid. Operated by Great River Hydro LLC since its commissioning in 1930, the plant transforms the energy from flowing water into electricity using efficient hydroelectric technology. This facility accounts for 0.01% of the total national capacity of 1,386,385 MW, which is dominated by gas-fired plants. Notably, Comerford is situated near a cluster of other energy facilities, including the S C Moore hydro plant (190.8 MW) and various wind farms such as Kingdom Community Wind (65 MW) and Sheffield Wind (40 MW). This proximity to diverse energy sources enhances the resilience of the local grid while illustrating the collaborative nature of renewable energy development in the region. The energy landscape of the United States is characterized by over 10,000 power plants, and while gas remains the leading fuel type, the inclusion of hydroelectric plants like Comerford is essential for achieving a balanced and sustainable energy mix. The ongoing transition towards renewables highlights the importance of facilities like Comerford, which not only provide clean energy but also support local job markets and contribute to economic stability. As national and global efforts intensify towards combatting climate change, hydroelectric power stands out as a reliable and environmentally friendly resource, making plants like Comerford crucial players in the future of energy generation.